Apple Cheesecake Cinnamon Tacos

If you crave a dessert that makes everyone stop and say wow these Apple Cheesecake Tacos are for you Soft tortillas become crispy and sugary then are filled with tangy cream cheese and sweet cinnamon apples Reminiscent of apple pie and cheesecake in one bite there is nothing else quite like these mini taco treats and they vanish every time I bring them to a party

When I first made these for a picnic everyone asked for more and now my family requests them for holidays and birthdays

Ingredients

• Flour tortillas: the base for your crispy taco shells try to use fresh and soft large tortillas for easy cutting
• Brown sugar: gives a rich molasses sweetness and helps the cinnamon sugar coat stick to the tortillas choose dark brown for an extra caramel note
• Cinnamon: essential for that classic apple pie flavor use Saigon cinnamon for more warmth and aroma if you can
• Oil: for frying use a neutral oil like canola or vegetable for best flavor and crispness
• Cream cheese: brings tangy creaminess use full fat for richer filling
• Heavy cream: lightens and fluffs the cheesecake filling look for one with at least thirtysix percent fat
• Powdered sugar: sweetens the filling while keeping it smooth sift before adding to avoid lumps
• Vanilla extract: rounds out both filling and apple pie flavors use pure extract if possible
• Apples: classic for pie filling Honeycrisp or Granny Smith give the best tart sweet balance choose firm apples with no bruises
• Cornstarch: thickens the apple filling to keep it from running
• Nutmeg: adds warmth and depth to the apple filling use freshly grated for a bolder aroma if available

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cut and Prep the Tortillas:

Use a three point five to four inch round cutter to make uniform circles from large flour tortillas This ensures each shell cooks evenly and fits the perfect amount of filling

Make Cinnamon Sugar Mix:

In a small bowl combine brown sugar and cinnamon Stir very well so there are no lumps and set aside for coating the freshly fried tortillas

Fry the Tortilla Circles:

Heat one inch of oil in a sturdy pan over medium heat Test by dropping in a piece of tortilla it should bubble immediately Carefully fry each circle for ten to fifteen seconds on the first side Flip and gently fold in half using tongs then fry until golden and crisp on both sides Drain on paper towels

Coat with Cinnamon Sugar:

While still hot immediately toss the fried shells in brown sugar cinnamon mix so the coating sticks beautifully Shape shells by placing over an upsidedown muffin tin to help them keep their taco shape while they cool

Prepare the Apple Pie Filling:

In a saucepan combine water cornstarch brown sugar cinnamon and nutmeg Whisk over medium heat until thick add diced apples and vanilla extract Simmer until apples soften and syrup is glossy Let cool to room temperature before filling shells

Mix the Cream Cheese Filling:

Beat together cream cheese heavy cream powdered sugar and vanilla until thick and fluffy This mixture should hold its shape well Use a hand mixer for best results

Pipe the Filling and Assemble:

Transfer cream cheese filling to a piping bag Pipe generous amounts into each cooled shell Spoon apple pie filling over the cheesecake layer for that classic apple pie meets cheesecake taste

Save

I absolutely love the warmth and comfort cinnamon brings to these tacos It always reminds me of fall apple picking trips with my kids and those hugs from the scent alone are reason enough to make this dessert

Storage Tips

Store the assembled tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days If you want to keep the shells crisp store empty shells and fillings separately then assemble just before serving

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap in pear for the apple filling if you like a twist or use gluten free tortillas for those with allergies Lowfat cream cheese works but will not be as rich

Serving Suggestions

Save

Pile the tacos on a platter dust with extra cinnamon or drizzle with caramel for a party presentation Serve each on a napkin or plate for easy eating Try pairing with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat

Cultural and Historical Context

Dessert tacos are a playful twist on the traditional savory taco and take inspiration from classic American apple pie and cheesecake These inventive bites add some fun and creativity to your dessert table while combining beloved flavors

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you keep the taco shells crispy?

After frying and coating in cinnamon sugar, let shells cool completely. Store the filling separately and assemble just before serving to maintain crispness.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the apple filling and cream cheese mixture in advance. Fry and shape the tortilla shells the day of serving for best texture.

→ Are these tacos best served warm or cold?

They can be enjoyed both ways—serve freshly made for a warm treat, or chill in the fridge for a refreshing dessert option.

→ What other toppings work well with these tacos?

Try adding whipped cream, chopped nuts, caramel or chocolate sauce for extra flavor and a festive presentation.

→ How do I prevent the shells from becoming soggy?

Keep shell and filling separate until just before serving, and avoid overfilling to help preserve crispness.

→ Is it possible to make mini versions?

Yes, use a smaller circle cutter for the tortillas to create bite-sized versions perfect for parties or dessert trays.